Utilization of Mobile Maternal Health Services among Women of Reproductive Age in Makueni County, Kenya

Abstract

Purpose: The research sought to evaluate mobile maternal health service use among women within reproductive age in Makueni County, Kenya.
 Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out in Makueni County. Kibwezi East and Kaiti Sub-Counties were purposively selected. Ukia ward from Kaiti sub-county and Nzambani ward from Kibwezi East sub-county were randomly selected using folded pieces of paper. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Questionnaires were the tools used for quantitative data while guides for key informant were used to collect data qualitatively. The study systematically sampled 367 women of reproductive age as primary respondents from households at a sampling interval of 5. Twelve Key Informant Interviewees were purposively selected to provide additional qualitative data which were community health extension workers and healthcare providers. The research instruments were pretested at Kilome Sub County before actual data collection. Analytical correctional statistical analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software version 20.0. Pie-charts, frequency tables and graphs were used to present data. Triangulation of data collected qualitatively with quantitative data was done and presented as direct quotes. Tests of Chi-Square were done at 95% CI and an error of precision of 0.05 to calculate inferential statistics showing variable associations. Ethical considerations were taken into account and informed consent acquired from participants.
 Findings: The study concludes that 40.6% of respondents utilized mobile maternal health services in Makueni County. The most common service sought was antenatal care. Distance from health facilities was the main reason for using mobile maternal health services. Majority of individual factors such as average family income (p=0.001), parity (p=0.019), type of pregnancy related complication experienced (p=0.027) and awareness (p=0.006) influenced use of mobile maternal health services. About 59.9% of respondents had a positive attitude towards mobile maternal health services and attitude (p=0.010) significantly affected mobile maternal health service use. Further, the study concludes that most health system factors including facility distance (p=0.001), source of information (p=0.012), waiting time (p=0.004), affordability (p=0.013) and experience with healthcare providers (p=0.023) played a key role in influencing utilization mobile maternal health services.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: These results would inform policy makers to craft interventions seeking to advance mobile maternal health services utilization. This would further avoid preventable complications thus improving maternal and health outcomes of children in the country.